MANILA, Philippines — Israeli carrier Arkia is currently pursuing regulatory clearance from Philippine aviation authorities to launch direct flights connecting Manila and Tel Aviv, according to the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB).
In an official notice released on October 15, the CAB announced that the airline has formally submitted an application for a foreign air carrier permit to operate the nonstop service, which is targeted for launch in January.
A formal hearing has been set for November 12 to review the proposal, with representatives from Arkia and key domestic carriers summoned to participate.
Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh previously revealed that the airline aims to debut the route on January 3. The initial schedule features a weekly frequency, which could later be expanded based on market demand, with an estimated flight duration of roughly 11 hours.
Ambassador Kursh emphasized that the direct air link is poised to invigorate tourism by tapping into growing interest from Israeli travelers exploring Philippine destinations. Furthermore, she noted that the connection will foster broader opportunities for trade, investment, and bilateral cultural exchange.
Echoing this sentiment, the Israel Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ICCP) stated that the route will streamline networking and collaboration between business leaders from both nations.
“The Philippines and Israel already share a long-standing friendship. A direct Manila-Tel Aviv flight can help translate that relationship into even stronger economic and commercial engagement,” the ICCP said in a statement last month.
The chamber also pointed out that the new air link could help pave the way for a potential free trade agreement between the two countries. The initiative aligns with broader government efforts launched earlier this year to bolster international air connectivity and expand accessibility to Tel Aviv.
Meanwhile, another major Israeli carrier, EL AL, has indicated plans to introduce three weekly flights on the same corridor pending the acquisition of necessary governmental approvals.